Package Carrying Arrangement

ABSTRACT

A portable package carrying arrangement adapted and configured to carry a plurality of containers which is particularly applicable for use with canned items and/or items packaged in a container. The portable package carrying arrangement includes a panel portion and two handle portion. A loading station can be provided which is configured to be used with and/or in conjunction with the portable package carrying arrangement.

The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/138,662, filed Mar. 26, 2015 and 62/149,822, filed Apr. 20, 2015, which are both fully incorporated herein.

The present invention relates to an arrangement to conveniently transport a plurality of food items, particularly to an arrangement to conveniently transport a plurality of packaged food items that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging, more particularly to a portable package carrying arrangement that is configured to conveniently transport a plurality of packaged food items that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging, and still more particularly to a portable package carrying arrangement that is configured to enable convenient loading, unloading and transporting of a plurality of packaged good items that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cans and/or containers are commonly used to store food and drink items for a variety of reasons including convenient production, convenient storage, and long-term storage due to a generally air-tight seal. Non-limiting examples of foods packed in a can include pet food, canned soup, canned meat, etc. Such cans are often generally cylindrical in shape and traditionally manufactured from a durable material such as aluminum, tin, plastic or steel. During the can manufacturing process, a bead or top rim is formed where the sidewall and the end walls of the container meet. The bead or top rim generally defines a shoulder and/or rim along the top edge, or top and bottom edges of the can. Oftentimes, the canned goods are placed in a cart and/or basket by a consumer along with other items. As such, during the checking out and bagging of many items, similar types of can goods are commonly placed in separate bags, thus requiring resorting when the consumer unpacks the purchased items. Additionally, selecting and carrying large quantities of canned goods (e.g., canned cat food, etc.) can be inconvenient to a consumer.

It would be desirable to provide a lightweight package carrying device that is capable of releasably securing one or more canned goods, which can maintain the cans together, and which can include a handle portion for the purpose of easily and conveniently carrying or transporting the package carrying device. It would also be desirable to provide an easy-to-use loading station for loading the cans in the lightweight package carrying device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a package carrying arrangement that can be used with food container items. In particular, the present invention is directed to an arrangement to conveniently transport a plurality of packaged food items that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging. In one non-limiting arrangement, the present invention is directed to a portable package carrying arrangement that is configured to enable convenient loading, unloading, and transporting of a plurality of packaged good items that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging. The package carrying arrangement is configured to releasably secure food container items. As can be appreciated, the package carrying arrangement can be used to releasably secure container items other than food container items.

In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the package carrying arrangement of the present invention is directed to a carrying device that can be easily and conveniently used by consumers to carry a plurality of container items. The package carrying arrangement is particularly applicable for use with canned items or items packaged in a container (e.g., pet food, canned soup, canned meat, canned seafood, canned fruit, canned vegetables, containers of mints/breath fresheners, containers of gum, containers of candy, beverage containers, spice containers, frozen beverage concentrate containers, containers of yogurt, containers of refrigerated or frozen bakery goods, containers of ice cream or sorbet, votive candles, etc.) and will be described with particular reference thereto.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package carrying arrangement suitable for use in carrying containers of different sizes (e.g., 2 ounce containers, 3 ounce containers, 5 ounce containers, 5.5 ounce containers, 8 ounce containers, 13 ounce containers, 16 ounce containers, 20 ounce containers, etc.); however, this is not required. The package carrying arrangement of the present invention is particularly useful in carrying two or more container items (e.g., two containers, three containers, four containers, five containers, six containers, eight containers, twelve containers, sixteen containers, twenty containers, twenty-four containers, etc.). The package carrying arrangement as described in the present invention enables a user to load, releasably secure, and unload container items so as to easily and conveniently transport and/or carry canned goods.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package carrying arrangement that includes a substantially planar panel portion. The package carrying arrangement generally also includes a handle portion; however, this is not required. The material and colors of the components of the carrying device are non-limiting. Generally, the materials are durable, lightweight, and/or liquid resistant. Non-limiting materials that can be used include plastic, rubber, metal, resinous material, composite material, paperboard, cardboard, etc. The panel portion can comprise single-layered or multi-layered materials. The shape of the panel portion and the handle portion are non-limiting. For example, the panel portion can include a rectangular, circular, oval and/or polygonal cross-sectional shape; and the handle portion can include a rectangular and/or polygonal cross-sectional shape; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the handle portion (when used) is continuous with the panel portion and is optionally formed in a one-piece construction therewith; however, this is not required.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the thickness of the panel is generally selected to be substantially thin; however, this is not required. The thin profile (when used) enables the panel to be lightweight and easily folded. Generally, the maximum thickness of the panel of the carrying device is less than five millimeters; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting design, the maximum thickness of the panel of the carrying device is less than four millimeters. In another non-limiting design, the maximum thickness of the panel of the carrying device is less than three millimeters. In still another non-limiting design, the maximum thickness of the panel of the carrying device is about 0.5-4 millimeters. In yet another non-limiting design, the maximum thickness of the panel of the carrying device is about 0.5-3 millimeters. In still yet another non-limiting design, the maximum thickness of the panel of the carrying device is about 1-3 millimeters.

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the size of the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement is generally selected to accompany a plurality of containers; however, this is not required. Generally, the panel portion is about 4 inches to about 40 inches in length (and all values and ranges therebetween) and from about 2 inches to about 24 inches in width (and all values and ranges therebetween); however, this is not required. In one specific embodiment, the panel is about 24 inches in length and about 16 inches in width; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting specific configuration, the panel portion (plus any optional handle portion) has a width of about 10-18 inches, and a length of about 20-34 inches. In another non-limiting specific configuration, the panel portion (plus any optional handle portion) has a width of about 10-14 inches, and a length of about 20-28 inches. In another non-limiting specific configuration, the panel portion (plus any optional handle portion) has a width of about 10-14 inches, and a length of about 10-16 inches. In another non-limiting specific configuration, the panel portion (plus any optional handle portion) has a width of about 13-17 inches, and a length of about 24-34 inches. In another non-limiting specific configuration, the panel portion (plus any optional handle portion) has a width of about 13-17 inches, and a length of about 12-17 inches. Generally, the package carrying arrangement has a constant thickness; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the thickness of the package carrying arrangement is about 0.01 inch to 0.25 inch (and all values and ranges therebetween).

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement can include one or more folds lines, wherein the one or more fold lines allow one side of the panel portion to pivot or be folded relative to the other side of the panel portion between the open (i.e., unfolded) and closed (i.e., folded) position; however, this is not required. The one or more fold lines can be connected to and/or be formed on the panel portion and can comprise one or more pivot points or pivot grooves; however, this is not required. In non-limiting embodiments, the one or more fold lines can be a thin section of the panel portion with increased flexibility; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment, the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement includes a groove, scoring and/or other type of arrangement that enables the panel portion to be folded along such groove, scoring and/or other type of arrangement; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the panel portion includes a groove, scoring and/or other type of arrangement that allows a user to easily fold the panel portion in half along the longitudinal axis (along the longitudinal length) or latitudinal axis (along the width) of the panel portion. In one specific arrangement, the panel portion includes a groove, scoring and/or other type of arrangement that allows a user to easily fold the panel portion in half along the latitudinal axis (along the width) of the panel portion. In one specific embodiment, the one or more fold lines extend laterally across the entire panel portion from a first side edge to a second side edge; however, this is not required. In still another and/or alternative non-limiting embodiment, the one or more fold lines extend laterally across the majority of the panel portion; however, this is not required. The one or more fold lines can permit the panel portion to be folded in half such that the two longitudinal ends meet when in a folded position; however, this is not required. In non-limiting embodiments where two pivot points or pivot grooves are used, the distance between the first and second pivot points can be from about 0.25 inches to about 2.5 inches (and all values and ranges therebetween). In one specific embodiment, the distance from the first fold line to the imaginary center line is the same distance as from the second fold line to the imaginary center line; however, this is not required.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The top and/or bottom surfaces can include a plurality of support structures (e.g., ribs, grooves, additional material layers, additional thickness, etc.); however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the support structure is an additional layer thickness of the panel portion and/or additional layer of material connected to the top and/or bottom surface of the panel portion; however, this is not required. The support structures are generally located on the sides of the panel portion, and/or on the top and/or bottom of the panel portion; however, this is not required. When the one or more support structures are separate structures, the means of attachment of the one or more support structures to the panel portion is non-limiting and can include tape, adhesive, hook and loop fastener, etc. As can be appreciated, the one or more surface structures can be integrally formed with the panel portion; however, this is not required. The one or more surface structures can be provided to add strength, durability and rigidity to the carrying arrangement panel; however, this is not required. The surface structures or one or more portions of one or more surface structures can be magnetic such that when the panel portion is folded into a folded position, the folded panel sections of the panel portion are magnetically held in the folded position; however, this is not required. Similarly, the surface structures or one or more portions of one or more surface structures can include other non-limiting means of attachment (e.g., snaps, buttons, hooks, hook and loop fastener, adhesive, etc.); however, this is not required.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement includes one or more panel slots or openings. In one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the one or more panel openings can be configured to be container-receiving cutouts; however, this is not required. The one or more panel openings can include a center portion releasably attached to the panel portion by a perforated edge, serrated edge, groove, etc. such that a user can “punch out” the center portion of the panel opening prior to use; however, this is not required. The one or more panel openings can be used to releasably secure one or more containers (e.g., canned goods, etc.) to the panel portion; however, this is not required. A stretchable and/or bendable material can be optionally used for the panel portion to permit the container body to pass through the panel opening and frictionally engage with the side of the body of the container; however, this is not required. The one or more panel openings can optionally include one or more notches, slits, scored regions, etc. for the purpose of facilitating in the sliding of the can into the panel opening; however, this is not required. The one or more notches, slits, scored regions, etc. (when used) can provide a tight fit to hold the can in position in the panel opening and also optionally provide a tear-point for when a can is to be removed from the panel opening; however, this is not required. As such, the panel opening can receive a container body and also be releasably secured to the container. The one or more panel openings can be arranged in a generally rectangular array; however, this is not required. In non-limiting embodiments, the panel portion can include one or more rows of one or more panel openings. The one or more rows of panel openings can be parallel to one or more fold lines in the panel portion; however, this is not required. In one specific non-limiting embodiment, each half of the panel portion includes at least one row of panel openings wherein each row of panel openings includes at least two panel openings, and each of the rows of panel openings are parallel to an imaginary center line (i.e., parallel to the one or more fold lines) that runs along the latitudinal axis of the panel portion; however, this is not required. Generally, the shape of the one or more panel openings is selected to correspond with the shape of the container to be secured; however, this is not required. As such, a generally circular cross-sectional panel opening can be used in conjunction with generally circular cross-sectional shaped containers (e.g., cat food cans, etc.); however, this is not required. In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the one or more panel openings optionally include structures (e.g., adhesive, magnet, friction material such as silicon, rubber, etc.) that can be used to inhibit and/or prevent releasing the container from the panel opening without excessive force when at least a portion of the container is retained by panel opening; however, this is not required. The size of the one or more panel openings is non-limiting. Generally, the size and shape of the panel openings are the same; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the cross-sectional shape of the panel openings is circular and has a diameter of about 1-6 inches (and all values and ranges therebetween). In another non-limiting arrangement, the diameter of the panel opening is generally the same or slightly less (0.01%-5% less) than the diameter of the container to be inserted into the panel opening; however, this is not required. For example, if the container body has a diameter of three inches, the diameter of the panel opening is generally 2.9-3 inches. For example, if the container body has a diameter of four inches, the diameter of the panel opening is generally 3.9-4 inches. When the panel openings include one or more notches, slits, scored regions, etc. about the peripheral edge of the panel openings, these structures can be used to facilitate in the sliding of the can into the panel opening; however, this is not required. Generally, the top of the container includes a flange or rim or body transition region between the body of the container and the flange or rim that has a diameter which is greater than the diameter of the body of the container. The panel openings are generally configured to allow the body of the container to pass through the panel opening, but the panel openings are generally sized to prevent the flange or rim or body transition region of the container to pass through the panel opening. Generally, if the flange or rim or body transition region of the container is forced through the panel opening, the panel opening is damaged; however, this is not required. As such, the flange or rim or body transition region of the container generally functions as a stop of the container as it is being inserted through the panel opening and, generally, the bottom surface of the flange or rim or portion of the body transition region rests on the top surface of the panel portion that surrounds the panel opening when the body of the container is fully inserted into the panel opening; however, this is not required.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the package carrying arrangement optionally includes a handle portion that is configured to facilitate in the carrying by the user of the package carrying arrangement. The shape, size, and materials of the handle portion are non-limiting. The handle portion can optionally be formed of a lightweight, durable and liquid resistant material (e.g., plastic, rubber, composite material, metal, coated paper board, etc.); however, this is not required. The handle portion can be integrally formed as part of the panel portion; however, this is not required. In one specific non-limiting embodiment, a handle portion can be portioned at one or both ends of the panel portion. In one non-limiting configuration, a handle portion is positioned at both ends of the panel portion. The handle portion includes a handle opening that is spaced from the edge of the handle portion. The size and shape of the handle opening is non-limiting. In one non-limiting configuration, the handle opening has a generally rectangular shape wherein the width of the handle opening is substantially parallel to the latitudinal axis of the panel portion; however, this is not required. When the panel portion includes two handle portions located at both ends of the panel portion, the handle openings in the two handle portions can have the same shape and size; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the panel portion includes two handle portions located at both ends of the panel portion, and the handle openings in the two handle portions have the same or similar shape and size. When the panel portion is folded in half, the handle openings of the two handle portions partially or fully align with one another such that a user can insert one or more fingers through the two handle opens when carrying the folded panel portion; however, this is not required.

When the panel portion includes two handle portions located at both ends of the panel portion, at least one of the handle portions can include a connector that is configured to connect the handle portions together and/or portions of the panel portion together when the panel portions are folded (e.g., folded in half, etc.). Many different types of arrangement can be used to form the connection (e.g., adhesive, tape, hook and loop fastener, magnet, snap, friction engagement, latch, etc.) Generally, the connection is a releasable connection; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting configuration, a handle tab which is located on a handle portion is configured to be folded up through a handle opening of another handle portion when the panel portion is folded (e.g., folded in half, etc.); however, this is not required. The size and shape of the handle tab is non-limiting. In one non-limiting configuration, the handle tab (when used) can be substantially U-shaped such that three sides of the handle tab are absent attachment to the handle portion or panel portion, and the fourth connected edge provides a pivot point for the tab; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the shape of the handle tab can be other and/or alternative shapes.

According to one non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the handle tab can be from about 0.5 to about 14 inches in length (and all values and ranges therebetween) and about 0.5-4 includes in width (and all values and ranges therebetween); however, this is not required. In one non-limiting specific arrangement, the length of the handle tab is about 2-8 inches. A portion of the peripheral edge of the handle tab can include a perforated region, serrated region, grooved region, etc. that enables a user to “punch out” the handle tab at such regions. Generally, the handle tab is configured to remain connected to the handle portion or panel portion such that after the other portions of the handle tab are “punched out”, the handle tab still pivots on the location that is still connected to the handle portion or panel portion. In one non-limiting configuration, the handle tab includes three edges that are releasably attached to the handle portion and/or panel portion by a perforated region, serrated region, grooved region, etc. that enables a user to “punch out” the handle tab at the three edges of the handle tab; however, this is not required. In another non-limiting arrangement, the handle tab can pivot relative to an imaginary plane through its connected edge and parallel to the fold midline on the panel portion; however, this is not required. The handle tab can be configured to fold or pivot along its connected edge and enter through the handle opening in the other handle portion when the panel portion is folded in half; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement, the handle tab can facilitate in releasably connecting the handle portions together while the panel portion is folded in half. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to releasably connect the two handle portions together (e.g., magnet, tape, releasable adhesive, hook and loop fastener, etc.).

According to another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the handle portion can be configured for improved comfort and ease of use to the user; however, this is not required. As such, the handle opening in the handle portion can include a plurality of ergonomic grooves to accommodate a user's hand; however, this is not required. Additionally, the handle tab and/or other type of connection arrangement can be configured to hold the panel portion in the folded position, thereby alleviating the need of a user to continuously squeeze the two handle portions together; however, this is not required.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using a package carrying arrangement can include the steps of: 1) loading one or more containers into the panel openings provided in the package carrying arrangement; and 2) carrying the package carrying arrangement panel with the loaded cans to a desired location.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using a package carrying arrangement can include the steps of: 1) loading one or more containers into the panel openings provided in the package carrying arrangement; 2) folding the package carrying arrangement panel such that the handle portions located at the ends of the panel portion are brought together; and 3) carrying the package carrying arrangement panel with the loaded cans by the handle portion to a desired location.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using a package carrying arrangement can include the steps of: 1) loading one or more containers into the panel openings provided in the package carrying arrangement; 2) folding the package carrying arrangement panel such that the handle portions located at the ends of the panel portion are brought together; 3) connecting the folded panel portions together, wherein one non-limiting arrangement for connection is to fold a handle tab of one handle portion into and through the handle opening in the other handle opening, and 4) having the user place his/her fingers through the handle openings of both handle portions and carry the package carrying arrangement panel with the loaded cans to a desired location.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided a loading station that is configured for use with the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. The loading station can be configured to be permanently or movably mounted to a shelf system that holds canned goods (e.g., canned cat food, etc.); however, this is not required. The loading station is generally made of a durable material (e.g., metal, wood, plastic, composite material, etc.). In one specific non-limiting embodiment, the loading station material is a plastic material such as, but not limited to, polypropylene. The size and shape of the loading station is non-limiting. In one non-limiting arrangement, the loading station has a generally rectangular shape such that the overall length is greater than the width of the loading station; however, this is not required. According to another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the invention, the loading station can include one or more dividers and/or walls extending along the longitudinal and latitudinal axis of the loading station to form one or more cavities in the loading station; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the loading station includes a plurality of container cavities (e.g., two cavities, three cavities, four cavities, five cavities, six cavities, eight cavities, twelve cavities, sixteen cavities, twenty cavities, twenty-four cavities, etc.). The shape and size of the container cavities is non-limiting. Generally, each container cavity has generally the same shape and size; however, this is not required. Generally, the shape and size of the container cavity is selected to receive a body of a container that is to be used with the loading station; however, this is not required. Generally, the loading station has at least the same number of container cavities and the number of panel openings of the package carrying arrangement that is to be used with the loading station; however, this is not required. The depth of the container cavities is generally ±10% the height of the body portion the container; however this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, each container cavity in the loading station has the same size and shape (e.g., square cross-sectional shape, circular cross-sectional shape, polygonal cross-sectional shape, etc.) and the depth of the container cavities is about ±3% the height of the body portion the container.

In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the loading station can include one or more station compartments that are different from the one or more cavities. The one or more station compartments can be partially or fully separated from the one or more cavities. In one non-limiting arrangement, at least one station compartment is configured to hold one or more package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting embodiment, the station compartment used to hold the one or more package carrying arrangements is positioned rearwardly of the cavities on the loading station; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the loading station can include a plurality of station compartments wherein each station compartment is configured to hold a different package carrying arrangement. In one non-limiting arrangement, the loading station includes one or more station compartments wherein at least one of the station compartments has an opening located at the top of the loading station; however, this is not required. The opening of the station compartment is located generally at or above the top cavity on the loading station; however, this is not required. The depth of the chamber of the station compartment is generally equal to or less than the length of the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required.

In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the loading station can include an upper outwardly extending flange than can be used as hook feature for at least partially supporting the package carrying arrangement as the containers are loaded into the panel openings on the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the upper outwardly extending flange is positioned at or near the top of the loading station and extends outwardly toward the front of the loading station. The flange can be configured to allow the hanging of a panel; however, this is not required. The upper outwardly extending flange can include a lip and/or hook portion at the end of the upper outwardly extending flange; however, this is not required. The upper outwardly extending flange provides a means of releasably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station; however, this is not required. The shape and size of the package carrying arrangement is non-limiting. Generally, the lip and/or hook portion at the end of the upper outwardly extending flange is U-shaped; however, other or additional shapes can be used (e.g., rectangular, square, oval, polygonal, etc.). In use, the handle opening on the package carrying arrangement receives the front portion of the upper outwardly extending flange and supports the package carrying arrangement over the cavity face on the loading station. The lip and/or hook portion at the end of the upper outwardly extending flange is configured to inhibit or prevent the package carrying arrangement from slipping off the upper outwardly extending flange as the containers are loaded into the panel openings of the package carrying arrangement. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to hold the package carrying arrangement in position on the loading station as the containers are loaded into the panel openings of the package carrying arrangement.

In another non-limiting aspect of the invention, the loading station can include side faces that extend partially or the full vertical length of the loading station. The side faces can be configured to provide structural support and/or rigidity to the loading station and/or facilitate in the loading of the containers into panel openings of the package carrying arrangement. In one non-limiting arrangement, the side faces in combination with the cavity walls of the loading station inhibit or prevent the bending of the package carrying arrangement as the containers are loaded into the panel openings of the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the loading station can include one or more lower outwardly extending flanges; however, this is not required. The lower outwardly extending flanges are located generally at or near the bottom of the loading station. The shape and size of the one or more lower outwardly extending flanges is non-limiting. In use, the handle opening on the package carrying arrangement receives the front portion of the lower outwardly extending flange when the package carrying arrangement is positioned over the container cavity face on the loading station. The lower outwardly extending flange is configured to inhibit or prevent lateral movement of the package carrying arrangement as the containers are loaded into the panel openings of the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to hold the package carrying arrangement in position on the loading station as the containers are loaded into the panel openings of the package carrying arrangement.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, there is provided a loading station which can be immovably secured to or moveably secured to a shelf system; however, this is not required. When the loading station is immovably secured to the shelf system, the securing arrangement can include, but is not limited to, magnets, tape, adhesive, bolts, rivets, screws, clamp, solder, welding, hook and loop fastener, etc. The shelf system can include a sliding track wherein the loading station can be mounted so as to slide across the shelf; however, this is not required. In one non-limiting arrangement, the loading station includes a rear mount that is configured to be connected to the front end of a shelf. The rear mount is configured to extend outwardly from the rear face of the loading station. The rear mount can optionally include a recessed portion that receives a lower front edge of the shelf; however, this is not required. The back end of the rear mount includes a flange that secures to a back groove in the front edge of the shelf so as to secure the loading station to the shelf. As can be appreciated, other rear mount arrangements can be used to secure the loading station to the shelf.

In yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using the loading station can include the steps of: 1) selecting a package carrying arrangement; 2) removably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station; 3) inserting the base of a container through a panel opening of the package carrying arrangement until one or more of the panel openings include a container; and 4) removing the package carrying arrangement from the loading station.

In still another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using the loading station can include the steps of: 1) selecting a package carrying arrangement; 2) removably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station by hanging the handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station, 3) inserting the base of a container through a panel opening of the package carrying arrangement until one or more of the panel openings include a container; and 4) removing the package carrying arrangement from the loading station by lifting the handle portion off of the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station.

In still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using the loading station can include the steps of: 1) selecting a package carrying arrangement; 2) removing the package carrying arrangement from the opening of the station compartment; 3) removably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station by hanging the handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station such that the top surface of the package carrying arrangement faces away from the loading station and the bottom surface of the package carrying arrangement faces toward the loading station, 4) inserting the base of a container through a panel opening of the package carrying arrangement until one or more of the panel openings include a container and the body of the containers are at least partially inserted in a container cavity of the loading station; and 5) removing the package carrying arrangement from the loading station after the desired number of containers have been loaded in the package carrying arrangement by lifting the handle portion off of the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using the loading station can include the steps of: 1) selecting a package carrying arrangement; 2) removing the package carrying arrangement from the opening of the station compartment; 3) removably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station by hanging the upper handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station such that the top surface of the package carrying arrangement faces away from the loading station and the bottom surface of the package carrying arrangement faces toward the loading station, 4) positioning a portion of the lower outwardly extending flange through the handle opening of the lower handle portion of the package carrying arrangement to limit lateral movement of the package carrying arrangement relative to the loading station; 5) inserting the base of a container through a panel opening of the package carrying arrangement until one or more of the panel openings include a container and the body of the containers are at least partially inserted in a container cavity of the loading station; and 6) removing the package carrying arrangement from the loading station after the desired number of containers have been loaded in the package carrying arrangement by pulling the lower handle portion from the lower outwardly extending flange and then lifting the upper handle portion off of the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using the loading station can include the steps of: 1) selecting a package carrying arrangement; 2) removing the package carrying arrangement from the opening of the station compartment; 3) removably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station by hanging the upper handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station such that the top surface of the package carrying arrangement faces away from the loading station and the bottom surface of the package carrying arrangement faces toward the loading station, 4) positioning a portion of the lower outwardly extending flange through the handle opening of the lower handle portion of the package carrying arrangement to limit lateral movement of the package carrying arrangement relative to the loading station; 5) loading the desired number of containers in the package carrying arrangement by inserting each base of a container through a panel opening of the package carrying arrangement until one or more of the panel openings include a container and the body of the containers are at least partially inserted in a container cavity of the loading station; 6) pulling the lower handle portion from the lower outwardly extending flange; 7) folding the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement by hanging the lower handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station while the upper handle portion of the package carrying arrangement remains on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station; and 8) removing the package carrying arrangement from the loading station by lifting the upper handle portion and lower handle portion off of the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station.

In another and/or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present invention, a method of using the loading station can include the steps of: 1) selecting a package carrying arrangement; 2) removing the package carrying arrangement from the opening of the station compartment; 3) removably securing the package carrying arrangement to the loading station by hanging the upper handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station such that the top surface of the package carrying arrangement faces away from the loading station and the bottom surface of the package carrying arrangement faces toward the loading station, 4) positioning a portion of the lower outwardly extending flange through the handle opening of the lower handle portion of the package carrying arrangement to limit lateral movement of the package carrying arrangement relative to the loading station; 5) loading the desired number of containers in the package carrying arrangement by inserting each base of a container through a panel opening of the package carrying arrangement until one or more of the panel openings include a container and the body of the containers are at least partially inserted in a container cavity of the loading station; 6) pulling the lower handle portion from the lower outwardly extending flange; 7) folding the panel portion of the package carrying arrangement by hanging the lower handle portion of the package carrying arrangement on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station while the upper handle portion of the package carrying arrangement remains on the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station, 8) folding the handle tab of one of the handle portions through the handle opening of the other handle portion; and 9) removing the package carrying arrangement from the loading station by lifting the upper handle portion and lower handle portion off of the upper outwardly extending flange of the loading station.

In all of the method set forth above, if the package carrying arrangement includes “punch out” portions for one or more of the panel openings, the “punch out” can be partially or fully removed prior to or during the insertion of the body of the container through the panel opening. If the handle tab requires partial “punching out”, the handle tab can be partially “punched out” prior to or during any of the method steps. If the loading station is moveably connected to a shelf system, the loading station can be moved to a desired position prior to or during of the method steps.

One non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a package carrying arrangement configured to conveniently transport a plurality of containers.

Another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a package carrying arrangement configures to conveniently transport a plurality of containers that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging.

Yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a package carrying arrangement configured to enable convenient loading, unloading and transporting of a plurality of containers that are packaged in the same or similarly shaped, sized and configured packaging.

Yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a package carrying arrangement that can be used to releasably secure a plurality of containers.

Yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a loading station suitable for use in facilitating the loading of a package carrying arrangement according to the present invention.

Still yet another and/or alternative non-limiting object of the present invention is the provision of a method for loading and unloading a package carrying arrangement in accordance with the present invention.

These and other objectives will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and following the description taken together with the accompanied drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference may now be made to the drawings which illustrate various non-limiting embodiments that the invention may take in physical form and in certain parts and arrangements of parts wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective illustration of the bottom surface of one non-limiting package carrying arrangement according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective illustration of the top surface of the package carrying arrangement of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective illustration of the package carrying arrangement of FIG. 2 wherein the panel portion is partially loaded with containers;

FIG. 4 is a perspective illustration of the package carrying arrangement of FIG. 2 wherein the loaded panel portion is folded in half and releasably secured in the folded position by a connection arrangement;

FIG. 5 is a perspective illustration of a loading station according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a back perspective view of the loading station of FIG. 5 wherein the loading station is attached to a track system of a shelf;

FIG. 7 is a perspective illustration of the loading station of FIG. 5 wherein a package carrying arrangement of FIG. 1 is hung so that the bottom surface is facing the loading station;

FIG. 8 is a perspective illustration of the loading station of FIG. 7 wherein the package carrying arrangement panel is being loaded with containers;

FIG. 9 is a perspective illustration of the loading station of FIG. 8 wherein the loaded package carrying arrangement is folded on the loading station; and

FIG. 10 is a perspective illustration of the loading station of FIG. 9 wherein the folded package carrying arrangement is removed from the loading station.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for the purpose of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the invention only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention, FIGS. 1-10 illustrate a package carrying arrangement 100 that can be used in and/or in conjunction with the loading, unloading, and transport of a plurality of packaged food items in accordance with the present invention, and a loading station 500 which can be used with the package carrying arrangement 100.

The package carrying arrangement 100 includes a panel portion 200 and first and second handle portions 300, 320. The first handle portion is connected to one end of the panel portion and the second handle portion is connected to the other end of the panel portion. Generally, the first and second handle portions are integrally formed with the panel portion; however, this is not required. The package carrying arrangement is not limited in material, size, shape or color. Generally, the package carrying arrangement is formed of a lightweight, durable material such as a paperboard material; however, other or additional materials can be used (e.g., cardboard, plastic, fiberboard, etc.). The panel portion can be formed of one or more layers. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the panel of the package carrying arrangement has a generally rectangular shape; however, other or additional shapes can be used. The package carrying arrangement is illustrated as having a first longitudinal edge 202, a second longitudinal edge 206, a front end 204 and a distal end 208. The package carrying arrangement has a bottom surface 210 and a top surface 230. The top and/or bottom surfaces can optionally display various types of information (e.g., instructions of use, advertising, coupons, labels, bar codes, etc.). Information can also or alternatively be impressed into the package carrying arrangement (e.g., brand names, labels, etc.); however, this is not required.

The top surface 230 of package carrying arrangement 100 can optionally include a plurality of support structures 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 as illustrated in FIG. 2. The support structures are not limited in shape. Generally, the support structures are positioned about the outer peripheral portion of the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. The material used to form the one or more support structures can be the same as or different from the material used to form the panel portion. The thickness of the support structures can be the same or different. The thickness of the support structures can be the same as or different from the thickness of the panel portion. The means of attachment of support structures 231, 232, 234, 235, 236 to the top surface 230 of package carrying arrangement 100 is not limiting. Generally, the support structures are adhesively secured to the top surface of the package carrying arrangement 100; however, one or more of the support structures can be integrally formed on the top surface or connected to the top surface by other or additional attachment means (e.g., tape, hook and loop fastener, melted seam, solder, etc.).

Support structures 231, 232, 234, 235 can optionally include one or more projections, wherein the projections extend at least partially between adjacent panel openings 220 in the panel portion 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2, support structures 231, 232, 234, 235 are spaced from the panel openings; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 3, when a container 400 is inserted into the panel opening, the body transition region or rim or top flange 410 of the container is spaced from the support structures; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2, support structures 231, 232, 234, 235 extend to the side edges of first edge 202 or second edge 206 of the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. Support structures 231, 232, 234, 235 can be spaced from one another; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2, support structures 231 and 232 are spaced from one another about the center line of the package carrying arrangement. Likewise, support structures 234 and 235 are spaced from one another about the center line of the package carrying arrangement. The shape of the spacing is generally V-shaped; however, this is not required. This spacing facilitates in allowing the package carrying arrangement to be folded in half about the centerline of the package carrying arrangement. Support structures 233, 236 can partially or completely surround the handle openings 310, 322, respectively.

The support structures (when used) can add strength and/or rigidity to the package carrying arrangement and/or inhibit or prevent the tearing of the panel portion and/or handle portion. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the one or more surface structures are magnetic such that when the package carrying arrangement is folded in half, one or more magnets on the support structures can facilitate in maintaining the package carrying arrangement in the folded position; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, other or additional arrangements can be used to facilitate in maintaining the package carrying arrangement in the folded position.

The package carrying arrangement 100 can include a fold line extending laterally across the panel 200 from a first edge 202 to a second edge 206; however, this is not required. Generally, the fold line is formed along axis 214. As such, when the panel 200 is folded along fold line 214, the two ends 204, 208 are brought together and meet when in a folded position. The fold line can optionally include a groove, scoring or some other structure to facilitate in the folding of the package carrying arrangement along the fold line. FIG. 2 illustrates scoring as represented by the fold line on the top surface of the package carrying arrangement.

The panel portion 200 of the package carrying arrangement can include a plurality of panel openings 220. The panel openings 220 are not limited in size or shape. Generally, the panel openings are formed in circular shapes having a diameter of about 2-5 inches; however, other or additional shapes and sizes can be used. The shape of the panel openings is generally selected based on the shape of the body of the container that is to be inserted into the panel opening. The panel openings are illustrated in FIG. 1 as being spaced from one another and spaced from the peripheral edge of the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required. Generally, adjacently positioned panel openings that are positioned on the same side of axis 214 are spaced the same distance from one another; however, this is not required. The panel openings are also illustrated as being spaced from the handle openings; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the spacing of the panel openings that are positioned on the same side of axis 214 is less than the spacing between the panel openings located on each side of axis 214; however, this is not required.

The one or more of the panel openings 220 can optionally include one or more notches 222 and/or slits 224. The one or more notches 222 and/or slits 224 are illustrated as being located along a portion of the peripheral edge of the panel opening; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, scoring can also or alternatively be used about the peripheral edge of the panel opening; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 1, each panel opening includes a plurality of sets of notches and/or slits. Each set is illustrated as including two notches and three slits; however this is not required. Adjacent sets of notches and/or slits are illustrated as being spaced at equal distances apart from one another about the peripheral edge of the panel opening; however, this is not required.

The notches and/or slits and/or scoring and/or tear grooves (when used) are configured to allow a portion of the outer peripheral edge of the panel opening to flex and/or bend, and/or further open up as a container is inserted into the panel opening. When the size of the panel opening is slightly smaller than the container body, the flexing and/or bending of the outer peripheral edge of the panel opening and/or the further opening up or increase in the size of the panel opening allows the container body to be inserted into the panel opening and results in a tight fit, thereby maintaining the container in the panel opening; however, this is not required. Additionally, the notches and/or slits and/or scoring and/or tear grooves, when used, can be configured to provide tear points for when a user removes a container from the panel opening; however, this is not required. The number of notches and/or slits and/or scoring and/or tear grooves about a panel opening is non-limiting. Generally, each panel opening includes the same number, same type and same configuration about the panel open or notches and/or slits and/or scoring and/or tear grooves; however, this is not required.

The package carrying arrangement 100 can include a first handle portion 300 and/or a second handle portion 320. The handle portions 300, 320 can be integrally formed with the panel portion 200; however, this is not required. When the package carrying arrangement is folded along fold line 214, the two ends 204, 208 and two handle portions 300, 320 are brought together and meet when in a folded position. In the folded position, the handle openings 310, 322 are partially or fully aligned with one another. The each of the two side edges of each handle portion is illustrated as angling inwardly from the peripheral edge of the panel portion; however, this is not required.

The first handle portion 300 includes a handle tab 311. The handle tab 311 is capable of folding up through an opening 322 on a second handle portion 320 when the package carrying arrangement is folded along fold line 214. The handle tab 311 is not limited in size or shape. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the handle tab is substantially oval; however, other or additional shapes can be used. The handle tab 311 can include three adjacent edges 312, 316, 318 that are configured to separate from the adjacent material of the handle portion and/or panel portion. The separation can be achieved by scoring, slits, slots, tear groove, etc. Edge 314 is configured to least partially maintain it connection to the adjacent material of the handle portion. As such, the portion of edge 314 of handle tab 311 provides a means of pivoting and/or rotating the handle tab when edges 312, 316, 318 are caused to be separated from the adjacent material of the handle portion and/or panel portion; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the first handle portion can be absent a handle tab and merely include handle opening 310; however, this is not required.

The second handle portion 320 of package carrying arrangement 100 includes a handle opening 322. The handle opening 322 is not limited in size or shape. The handle opening can be substantially oval as illustrated in FIG. 1; however, other or additional shapes can be used. Opening 322 can be configured to have the same or similar shape and/or size as handle opening 310 of the first handle portion 300; however, this is not required. In such an arrangement, handle opening 322 can receive handle tab 311 when the package carrying arrangement is folded in half. The insertion of the handle tab through handle opening 322 facilitates in maintaining the packaging carrying arrangement in the folded position; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the two end regions of handle opening 322 include a portion 323 that extends closer to distal end 208 of the package carrying arrangement. Likewise, two end regions of handle opening 310 include a portion 313 that extends closer to front end 204 of the package carrying arrangement. These regions on each of the handle openings can be used with features of the loading station as discussed below to facilitate in the handling and/or orientation of the package carrying arrangement to the loading station; however, this is not required.

In use, as best illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, a container 400 with rim 410 and body 420 can be held in each panel opening in the package carrying arrangement 100. Generally, container 400 is held around the body 420 by panel opening as illustrated in FIG. 3. A plurality of notches 222 and slits 224 facilitate allowing the container to be pushed into the panel opening. The container is retained in the panel opening about the outer surface of the body of the container, typically at or near the location on the container where the larger diameter rim 410 meets the smaller diameter body 420; however, this is not required.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3-4, as the two handle portions and edges 204, 208 are brought together, the package carrying arrangement folds along fold line 214. In the folded position, edges 204, 208 are brought together such that handle tab 311 of the first handle portion is aligned with handle opening 322 of the second handle portion. Handle tab 311 can be pushed through the handle opening 322 of the second handle portion and folded along its pivot edge 314 such that the top surface 315 of handle tab 311 engages with the bottom surface 210 of the package carrying arrangement. As such, when the handle tab is folded through handle opening 322, the package carrying arrangement is prevented from unfolding.

With reference to FIG. 4, when the package carrying arrangement is in a folded position, the top surface 230 of the package carrying arrangement and lids of the plurality of container face one another; however, this is not required. Generally, at least a portion of the top surface of one half of the package carrying arrangement engages with at least a portion of the top surface of the other half of the package carrying arrangement when in a folded position; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 4, when the package carrying arrangement is loaded with one or more containers, a majority of the body of the container protrudes from the bottom surface of the package carrying arrangement panel. The one or more surface structures 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 (when used) can serve the purpose of adding strength and rigidity to the package carrying arrangement panel to inhibit or prevent the package carrying arrangement from tearing due to the weight of the containers loaded in the package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-10, there is illustrated a loading station 500 in accordance with the present invention, which can be used with a package carrying arrangement 100 as described above. The loading station can be attached to a shelf system that holds canned goods, etc. and can be used to facilitate the loading of cans into said package carrying arrangement; however, this is not required.

The loading station 500 includes a loading portion 600. The loading portion 600 is not limited in size, shape, material or color. Generally, the loading portion is formed of a durable material such as plastic, metal, wood, composite material, etc.; however, other or additional materials can be used. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the loading portion is formed in a rectangular shape; however, other or additional shapes can be used (e.g., square, polygonal, circular, oval, etc.). The loading portion includes an outer peripheral wall 602 extending continuously through the corners in a substantially rectangular shape, thereby creating a loading cavity 612 defined partially by the outer wall 602. As can be appreciated, the outer peripheral wall is not required to be continuous and can be formed of multiple pieces. Also, the outer peripheral wall is not required to have curved corners as illustrated in FIG. 5. The loading cavity that is at least partially formed by the outer wall 602 of loading portion 600 can be subdivided by a plurality of longitudinal walls, one of which is marked as 610 and a plurality of horizontal walls, one of which is marked as 620. Walls 610, 620 divide loading cavity 612 into a one or more container cavities 630. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the loading portion 600 includes two longitudinal walls and three horizontal walls arranged to create twelve container cavities; however, it can be appreciated that a different number of walls can be used to form a different number of container cavities in loading cavity 612. The loading station 600 can be attached to or formed on the front surface of a storage compartment portion 700 such that the front wall 702 of storage compartment portion 700 defines the back surface of the plurality of container cavities 630 of loading portion 600; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, loading cavity 612 can have a separate rear wall from the structures of the storage compartment portion 700. Also, it can be appreciated that the loading portion can be absent storage compartment portion 700.

The storage compartment portion 700 (when used) is not limited in shape, size, material or color. Generally, the storage compartment portion is formed of a durable material such as plastic, metal, wood, composite material, etc.; however, other or additional materials can be used. The material of the storage compartment portion 700 and the material of the loading portion 600 can be the same or different. The storage compartment portion 700 and the loading portion 600 can be integrally formed as a one-piece construction; however, it can be appreciated that the loading portion and the storage compartment portion can be two separate components can be optionally connected together by some type of connection means (e.g., adhesive, rivet, screw, bolt, melted connection, solder, weld, etc.). As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 8-10, the storage compartment portion is formed in a substantially rectangular shape; however, other or additional shapes can be used (e.g., square, circular, polygonal, oval, etc.). The storage compartment portion includes a compartment 710 suitable for use in storing a plurality of package carrying arrangement panels 100, as described above. The storage compartment portion can be configured to enclose at least a portion of the package carrying arrangement panels. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the majority of the panel is enclosed by the storage compartment portion (e.g., 60-95% enclosed, etc.); however, this is not required. The height of the storage compartment portion 700 can optionally be greater than the height of the loading portion 600 as illustrated in FIG. 5; however, this is not required.

The loading station 500 can optionally include an upper outwardly extending flange 720 which includes a support wall 724 and hook arrangement 722; however, this is not required. At least a portion of the upper outwardly extending flange 720 is illustrated as extending outwardly (e.g., perpendicularly, etc.) from the front surface of the compartment portion at or near the top front edge of the compartment portion. The end portion of hook 722 extends upwardly from the body of the hook; however, this is not required. The upper outwardly extending flange 720 is not limited in size, shape, material or color. Generally, the upper outwardly extending flange 720 is formed of the same material as the storage compartment portion 700; however, other or additional materials can be used. As illustrated in FIG. 5, two support walls 724 are positioned under the two arms of hook 722. The support wall can extend from the top surface of the outer wall 602 of loading portion 600 to the bottom surface of the hook 722; however, this is not required.

Hook 722 is configured to support the package carrying arrangement 100 on the loading station as illustrated in FIG. 7. The front portion of the hook is configured to pass through one of the handle openings of the package carrying arrangement. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the front portion of the hook passes through handle opening 322 of the package carrying arrangement. The upwardly extending end portions of the hook are configured to maintain the package carrying arrangement on the hook to hold and support the package carrying arrangement on the front-facing surface of the loading station and to limit lateral movement of the package carrying arrangement while position on the front-facing surface of the loading station. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the front face of the package carrying arrangement faces outwardly from the loading station when positioned on the front-facing surface of the loading station; however, this is not required.

The loading station 500 can optionally include two lower outwardly extending flanges 604, 606. Lower outwardly extending flanges 604, 606 generally descend as surface projections from the bottom wall 608 of loading portion 600; however, it can be appreciated that the lower outwardly extending flanges can extend partially or fully across the bottom surface of the loading station 500. Lower outwardly extending flanges are not limited by material, size, shape or color. Generally, lower outwardly extending flanges are the same material as the loading portion 600; however, other or additional materials can be used. Lower outwardly extending flanges can optionally end in a hook feature; however, this is not required. Generally, the lower outwardly extending flanges extend at an angle of about 80-110° (e.g., 80-90°, etc.) from the bottom surface of the loading station 500; however, this is not required.

The two lower outwardly extending flanges 604, 606 are configured to be inserted through one of the handle openings on the package carrying arrangement. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the two lower outwardly extending flanges at least partially pass through handle opening 310 and cause the handle tab 311 to be maintained in the at least partially open position. The two lower outwardly extending flanges are configured to maintain the package carrying arrangement in position relative to the loading station and to support the package carrying arrangement on the front-facing surface of the loading station and to limit lateral movement of the package carrying arrangement while position on the front-facing surface of the loading station.

Referring now to FIG. 6, the loading station 500 can be attached to a shelf system 510. The configuration of the shelf system 510 is non-limiting. The attachment between the loading station 500 and the shelf system 510 is non-limiting. Generally, a track system 540 can be formed on or attached to the underside of a shelf system 510 such that the loading station 500 can slide left and right across the front edge of a shelf; however, this is not required. As can be appreciated, the loading station can be mounted so as to be immovable on the shelf system. One non-limiting advantage of using a track system 540 is that the loading station 500 can move across the shelf along the track such that no area of shelf is permanently blocked by the loading station 500. The attachment between the loading station 500 and the track system 540 is non-limiting.

FIGS. 5-10 illustrate the loading station 500 in use in accordance with the present invention. In use, package carrying arrangement can be removed from the compartment portion 700 of loading station 500. In embodiments where the compartment 700 is open on a top surface of the loading station, the package carrying arrangement can be lifted out from the compartment portion of the loading station. The package carrying arrangement can then be hung from a handle portion from the top of the loading station. In one non-limiting arrangement, the opening 322 of handle opening 322 is inserted partially over hook 722 of upper outwardly extending flange 720, and handle opening 310 inserted partially over lower outwardly extending flanges 604, 606 so as to position and support the package carrying arrangement on the front-facing surface of the loading station. As handle opening 310 is inserted partially over lower outwardly extending flanges 604, 606, handle tab 311 is slightly pushed out from handle portion 310. Generally, the package carrying arrangement is hung such that the top surface faces outwardly from the loading station 500 and the bottom surface faces toward the loading station; however, this is not required. Once the package carrying arrangement is in position on the loading station 500, one or more containers 400 can be loaded onto the package carrying arrangement. During the loading of the package carrying arrangement, each container is pushed into a separate panel opening by leading the base of the container through the panel opening. As the body of the container is continued to be inserted through the panel opening, the body of the container enters into a certain container cavity that is located behind the panel open that is being loaded. This process is repeated until the desired number of containers is loaded into the package carrying arrangement. The container cavities support the container during the loading process and reduce the torquing force and weight of the container on the package carrying arrangement to thereby reduce or prevent damage to the package carrying arrangement (e.g., tearing, bending, etc.) while the package carrying arrangement is being loaded with containers; however, this is not required.

Once the desired number of containers is loaded into the package carrying arrangement, handle portion 300 can be pulled off lower outwardly extending flanges 604, 606 and then optionally be folded upwardly towards handle portion 320. As illustrated in FIG. 9, handle openings 310 and 322 are inserted partially over hook 722 of upper outwardly extending flange 720 thereby causing the package carrying arrangement to be folded in half. The body of some of the containers is illustrated as extending outwardly from the bottom surface of the package carrying arrangement and also extending outwardly from the loading station, and at least a portion of the body of some of the container remains located in the container cavities of the loading station. Referring now to FIG. 10, a user can grasp both handle portions of the package carrying arrangement and remove the handle portions from hook 722 while the package carrying arrangement remains in the folded position. Handle tab 311 can be inserted through handle opening 322 to facilitate in maintaining the package carrying arrangement in the folded position; however, this is not required. If there is any printed material on the bottom side of the package carrying arrangement, it can be viewed when the package carrying arrangement is in the folded position. The spacing of the panel openings from one another is generally selected and/or the one or more surface structures is generally used to reduce or prevent damage to the package carrying arrangement (e.g., tearing, bending, etc.) while the package carrying arrangement is loaded with containers, folded while the container are loaded on the package carrying arrangement, and/or the package carrying arrangement is carried while in the folded position. Also or alternatively, the spacing of the panel openings from one another is generally selected and/or the one or more surface structures is generally used to inhibit or prevent the bodies containers that are loaded in the package carrying arrangement and extending outwardly from the package carrying arrangement from contacting one another while the package carrying arrangement is in the folded position; however, this is not required.

It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made in the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween. 

What is claimed:
 1. A portable package carrying arrangement comprising: a panel portion, said panel portion being substantially planar and including a plurality of panel openings that are configured to receive a body portion of a container to be loaded on the panel portion, said panel opening spaced from a peripheral edge of said panel portion, said panel portion having a top and bottom surface; and, a first handle portion, said first handle portion connected a first end of said panel portion, said first handle portion including a first handle opening configured to receive fingers of a user that grasps said first handle portion, said first handle opening spaced from said panel openings.
 2. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 1, including a second handle opening, said second handle portion connected to a second end of said panel portion, said second end is at an opposite end from said first end, said second handle portion including a second handle opening configured to receive fingers of a user that grasps said second handle portion, said second handle opening spaced from said panel openings.
 3. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 2, wherein said first handle portion includes a handle tab pivotally connected to said first handle opening, said handle tab configured to be at least partially inserted into said second handle opening when said panel portion is folded.
 4. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 1, including one or more panel opening structures positioned about one or more of said panel openings, said panel opening structures selected from the group consisting of a notch, a slot, a scored portion, a tear grove.
 5. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 3, including one or more panel opening structures positioned about one or more of said panel openings, said panel opening structures selected from the group consisting of a notch, a slot, a scored portion, a tear grove.
 6. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said panel portion includes six panel openings on each half of said panel portion, each of said panel openings on each half of said panel portion spaced and at an equal distance from adjacently positioned panel openings.
 7. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein the material of said panel portion is paperboard.
 8. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 1, wherein said top surface of said panel portion includes a plurality of surface structures extending upwardly from a top surface of said panel portion, each of said surface structures is spaced from said panel openings.
 9. The portable package carrying arrangement as defined in claim 5, wherein said top surface of said panel portion includes a plurality of surface structures extending upwardly from a top surface of said panel portion, each of said surface structures is spaced from said panel openings.
 10. A loading station suitable for use in facilitating the loading of a plurality of containers into a portable package carrying arrangement, said loading station comprising: a loading portion, said loading portion comprising an outer wall at least partially defining a loading cavity in said loading portion, said loading cavity includes a plurality of dividing walls that form a plurality of container cavities, openings of said container cavities facing outwardly from a front surface of said loading portion, each of said container cavities configured to at least partially receive a body of a container that is being loaded into the package carrying arrangement; and, a hook arrangement positioned at or near a top of said loading station, said hook arrangement including a hook portion that extends outwardly from said front surface of said loading portion, said hook arrangement configured to support the portable package carrying arrangement over said front surface of said loading portion when a container is loaded into the package carrying arrangement.
 11. The loading station as defined in claim 10, including a bottom flange arrangement positioned at or near a bottom of said loading portion, said bottom flange arrangement configured to be at least partially engage the portable package carrying arrangement and inhibit movement of the portable package carrying arrangement when the package carrying is positioned over said front surface of said loading portion.
 12. The loading station as defined in claim 10, including a storage compartment portion, said storage compartment portion including a cavity that is configured to hold a plurality of portable package carrying arrangements, said storage compartment portion is positioned rearwardly of said loading portion.
 13. The loading station as defined in claim 11, including a storage compartment portion, said storage compartment portion including a cavity that is configured to hold a plurality of portable package carrying arrangements, said storage compartment portion is positioned rearwardly of said loading portion.
 14. The loading station as defined in claim 12, wherein said portable package carrying arrangements include a panel portion and a first handle portion, said panel portion being substantially planar and including a plurality of panel openings that are configured to receive a body portion of a container to be loaded on the panel portion, said panel opening spaced from a peripheral edge of said panel portion, said panel portion having a top and bottom surface, said first handle portion connected to a first end of said panel portion, said first handle portion including a first handle opening configured to receive fingers of a user that grasps said first handle portion, said first handle opening spaced from said panel openings.
 15. The loading station as defined in claim 10, including a mount arrangement at least partially positioned on a back surface of said loading station, said mount arrangement including a flange arrangement configured to connect to a shelf system and enable said loading station to be slidably movable along a front face of the shelf system.
 16. The loading station as defined in claim 13, including a mount arrangement at least partially positioned on a back surface of said loading station, said mount arrangement including a flange arrangement configured to connect to a shelf system and enable said loading station to be slidably movable along a front face of the shelf system.
 17. A method of loading one or more containers in a carrying arrangement comprising the steps of: a. providing a portable package carrying arrangement, said portable package carrying arrangement includes a panel portion and a first handle portion, said panel portion being substantially planar and including a plurality of panel openings that are configured to receive a body portion of a container to be loaded on the panel portion, said panel opening spaced from a peripheral edge of said panel portion, said panel portion having a top and bottom surface, said first handle portion connected to a first end of said panel portion, said first handle portion including a first handle opening configured to receive fingers of a user that grasps said first handle portion, said first handle opening spaced from said panel openings; b. providing a plurality of containers, each of said containers including a body and an upper rim or flange or body transition region, said upper rim or flange or body transition region having a larger maximum cross-section area than a maximum cross-sectional area of said body of each of said containers; and, c. inserting said body of each of said containers through one of said panel openings until said upper rim or flange or body transition region of said container contacts an upper surface of said panel portion, said size and shape of each of said panel openings configured to frictionally engage said body of said container position in each of said panel openings.
 18. The method as defined in claim 17, wherein said panel portion includes one or more panel opening structures positioned about one or more of said panel openings, said panel opening structures selected from the group consisting of a notch, a slot, a scored portion, a tear grove, and further including the step of causing a cross-sectional size of at least one of said panel openings to increase as said body of said container is inserted into said panel openings, said increase in said cross-sectional size of at least one of said panel openings at least partially enabled by said one or more panel opening structures positioned about said panel opening.
 19. The method as defined in claim 17, wherein said portable package carrying arrangement further includes a plurality of surface structures extending upwardly from a top surface of said panel portion, each of said surface structures is spaced from said panel openings, said surface structures configured to improve strength and rigidity of said portable package carrying arrangement.
 20. The method as defined in claim 17, further including a loading station configured to facilitate in loading of a plurality of said containers into said portable package carrying arrangement, said loading station comprising: i. a loading portion, said loading portion comprising an outer wall at least partially defining a loading cavity in said loading portion, said loading cavity includes a plurality of dividing walls that form a plurality of container cavities, openings of said container cavities facing outwardly from a front surface of said loading portion, each of said container cavities configured to at least partially receive a body of a contain that is being loaded into said portable package carrying arrangement; and, ii. a hook arrangement positioned at or near a top of said loading station, said hook arrangement including a hook portion that extends outwardly of said front surface of said loading portion, said hook arrangement configured to support said package carrying arrangement over said front surface of said loading portion when a container is loaded into said portable package carrying arrangement; and further including the step of inserting said first handle opening at least partially over said hook portion of said hook arrangement such that said panel portion of said portable package carrying arrangement overlies said loading cavity of said loading portion, each of said panel openings in said panel portion oriented with a different one of said container cavities of said loading portion when said panel portion overlies said loading cavity of said loading portion.
 21. The method as defined in claim 20, wherein said loading station includes a storage compartment portion, said storage compartment portion including a cavity that is configured to hold a plurality of said portable package carrying arrangements, said storage compartment portion rearwardly of said loading portion, and further including the step of removing one of said portable package carrying arrangement from said storage compartment portion and positioning said portable package carrying arrangement to overlie said loading cavity of said loading portion.
 22. The method as defined in claim 21, further including the steps of moving at least a portion of said body of said container into one of said container cavities was said container is inserted into one of said panel openings while said portable package carrying arrangement overlies said loading cavity of said loading portion. 